Vuna Valley Ventures

* WHY VOLUNTEER WITH  V.I.P.E.-SA

If you are looking for a place to volunteer in any area from support to education, simple construction, establishing organic gardens, social work and care giving at schools and crèches and working with some of the most impoverished families and where the work is challenging and satisfying on so many levels and the people and cultural vitality is unparalleled, then jump in with both feet, an open mind and experience and fall in love with our rainbow nation.

We are on hand 24/7 for support, assistance and direction and take every ones needs into account on an individual basis. The personal home away from home touch is substantially enhanced by the simple fact that we work and reside in the same place as our volunteers.

All the projects that VIPE-SA has formed partnerships with are all registered well established sustainable projects with ongoing short and long term visions which include: Wild life welfare – education –sustainable poverty alleviation and conservation.

A transparent accounting system is in place so you the volunteer know exactly what your build in donation amount is and to what project your funds are transferred.

All four projects are within close proximity of Vuna Valley and we believe that together we will be able to “Make a difference” in many lives. HELP - EDUCATE  - SUSTAIN

Our geographical position and warm climate conditions further allows volunteers a safe environment to experience the best of South Africa’s cultural heritage, scenery and wildlife.

* How safe is South Africa and VIPE-SA projects

Personal safety is not something we take at all lightly. There are some general concerns regarding the crime rates in our cities and urban areas.

Being based along the south coast in a smaller town of Port Edward with all existing support structures in place for existing residents who live their daily lives and further supports a great influx of holidaymakers annually makes for a safe environment for our volunteers. Port Edward borders the famous Wild Coast and rural area with close access to impoverished communities in and around our area, plus with the well experienced team of locals on hand, we have put into place practical measures for a safe and secure stay.

Common sense and awareness amongst individuals is usually sufficient to prevent any mishaps, though extra precautions are taken in all circumstances. For example, no volunteer is permitted into any area or situation of potential concern without the permission of a VIPE-SA team member nor will they be alone on any assignment.

* What vaccinations do I need?

VIPE-SA is situated in a malaria-free environment and is unaffected by Yellow fever and Typhoid. Vaccinations required vary dependant on the advice of your doctor. As a general rule, if your standard vaccinations are current, you should not require any further immunization to come solely to VIPE-SA in Port Edward or general travel in most parts of South Africa.

Please consult your doctor for more information if you intend to travel elsewhere. Volunteers wishing to stay six months or more should visit the South African Home Affairs Department website to check the requirement  needed, as in some cases extra vaccinations or clearance certificates are required, e.g. a medical examination stating that you are in good health and  do not have TB, which may require you to have a chest X-ray.

* Will I need a Visa?

If you are coming to volunteer for less than 3 months you can use the standard 90 day tourist visa at the point of entry into SA. Should you wish to volunteer for a longer period then you will require a volunteer visa for the time you will be spending in SA.  Should this be the case and once you have been accepted into one of our programs then we will assist with the necessary documentation you will need from our organization to secure your volunteer visa.

* Travel insurance

We will require proof that you have full medical and travel insurance for the full time that you will be in SA.  You can get travel insurance through most travel agents or your standard insurance company will give you advise and which can work out to be less expensive.

* What do I pay a fee for and who will benefit by volunteering with VIPE-SA

In all cases, aside from the food, accommodation and local transport costs whilst on assignments, the money you pay goes towards the projects where you are placed or have selected. A clear and transparent accounting system is in place ensuring volunteers before they arrive what percentage of fees paid benefit the selected projects.

Education, conserving and sustaining existing projects e.g. the purchasing of seeds, poles, fencing, water tanks, educational apparatus etc, and providing training for the ongoing development of as many individuals as possible, ensuring sustainable job creation and conservation in the communities.

* Can I earn money whilst in South Africa?

NO. In line with many countries, South Africa applies the “SA National first employment policy”. With the high rate of unemployment and poverty in South Africa only foreign nationals with the appropriate work skills and residency permits are permitted to work.

* What spending Money should I bring?

This depends on how much you want to do whilst you are here. Most currencies have favorable exchange rates versus the Rand. For a currency converter go to www.oanda.com

* Packing Tips

Dress code is casual and comfortable. The weather along the south coast is sub-tropical with summer rainfall and humidity and our winters along the coast are mild but colder should you travel inland.

* Comfortable hiking and work shoes and sandals

* Sun hat/cap and loads of good sun protection cream.

* Waterproof jacket , Jeans or long pants, short and long sleeved T-shirts,  jersey, shorts and beachwear.

* Inexpensive camera and cell phone – you can buy a prepaid SIM card in SA allowing you to phone relatives at home. Internet access is available at Vuna Valley and internet cafes throughout SA.

NB: With the favorable ZAR exchange, clothing , toiletries and any food preferences are relatively inexpensive to purchase in SA.  Our water is safe for drinking and  our fresh produce safe for eating.